
Watercolour paints come in various forms, including tubes and pans. Tube paints are available in different sizes, with small tubes containing about 5ml of paint. A 5ml tube can fill a half pan about two to three times, with a little left over. The amount of paint in a 5ml tube is enough to test out a new colour. Artists can also use larger tubes of 14ml or 15ml to refill pans.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Capacity of a half pan | 2ml |
| Capacity of a full pan | 4-5ml |
| Number of half pans a 5ml tube can fill | 2-3 |
| Number of full pans a 5ml tube can fill | 1 |
| Cost-effectiveness | 5ml tubes are more cost-effective than pans |
| Suitability | 5ml tubes are suitable for trying out new colours |
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What You'll Learn

A 5ml tube fills a full pan
A 5ml tube of paint fills a full pan. However, the amount of paint in the tube does not equate to the amount in the pan due to the paint's water content. When the paint is squeezed into a pan and left to dry, the water evaporates, causing the paint to shrink. This means that one 5ml tube may not be enough to fill a full pan to the top, and one and a half to two tubes may be required.
The capacity of a full pan varies, with some sources stating it is 4ml, and others 5ml. The discrepancy may be due to the fact that some manufacturers make their pan paints by squeezing tube paint into a pan and allowing it to dry. This method may result in a greater volume of paint due to the evaporation of water.
The amount of paint required also depends on the user's painting habits and the size of their pieces. For example, a 5ml tube may be sufficient for an artist who paints infrequently or is testing out a new colour. On the other hand, a 15ml tube may be more suitable for an artist who paints regularly and uses a large volume of paint.
It is worth noting that tube paints tend to be cheaper than pan paints, but they are less convenient. Tube paints must be carefully stored to prevent drying out, whereas pan paints can be allowed to dry and reused. Additionally, tube paints can be difficult to control, leading to waste.
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A 5ml tube fills two half pans
When it comes to watercolour painting, artists have a variety of options to choose from, including liquid watercolour from tubes or ready-made pans. Tube paints are available in various sizes, with small tubes containing about 5ml of paint. A 5ml tube of paint can generally fill two half pans.
Half pans typically have a capacity of around 2ml, while full pans can hold approximately 4ml to 5ml of paint. Therefore, a 5ml tube can fill a half pan about two to three times, with a little left over. The exact number of fillings depends on the brand of paint and the size of the pans, which can vary slightly between different manufacturers.
For artists who are experimenting with new colours or painting less frequently, a 5ml tube of paint is a good option. It provides a decent amount of paint at a lower cost than larger tubes and allows artists to test out different pigments before committing to a larger size. Additionally, tube paints are often more economical than buying individual pan refills, especially for colours that are used infrequently.
When deciding between tubes and pans, it's important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each. Tube paints may be more challenging to control the amount of paint dispensed, and they require careful storage to prevent drying out. On the other hand, pan paints offer the convenience of ready-to-use paint and the ability to reuse any leftover paint by allowing it to dry in the tin. Ultimately, the choice between tubes and pans depends on personal preference, painting frequency, and the specific needs of the artist.
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5ml tubes are good for trying new colours
If you're an artist, you know that paint doesn't come cheap. That's why it's important to make smart choices when purchasing new colours. 5ml tubes are a great option if you're looking to try out a new colour without committing to a larger tube or pan.
Firstly, let's talk about the quantity of paint in a 5ml tube. A 5ml tube of paint will fill a full pan or two half pans. Of course, this will depend on the brand of paint, as some users have noted that certain brands may shrink more when dried in the pan. Additionally, the actual capacity of a full or half pan can vary slightly between manufacturers.
Now, let's discuss the advantages of 5ml tubes for trying new colours. Firstly, they are more cost-effective than buying larger tubes or full pans. If you end up not liking the colour, you won't be left with a lot of unused paint. Secondly, 5ml tubes are a good size for artist-grade paint, which tends to be highly pigmented. This means you can get a decent amount of paint to try out without spending a lot.
Another benefit of 5ml tubes is that they are easy to store and transport. If you're an artist who likes to paint outdoors or travel with your supplies, having smaller tubes can be more convenient than carrying larger tubes or pans. Finally, 5ml tubes give you the flexibility to experiment with different colours without breaking the bank. You can try out a wider variety of colours and find the ones that truly resonate with you and your artistic style.
In conclusion, 5ml tubes are a great option for artists who want to try new colours. They offer a good balance of quantity and cost-effectiveness, making them a smart choice for any artist looking to expand their colour palette.
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5ml tubes are more economical than buying half pans
When it comes to watercolour painting, there are several options to consider in terms of paint delivery methods. Artists can choose between ready-made pans, liquid watercolours straight from the tube, or filling their own tins with tube paint to create their own pans. While convenience and personal preference play a role in this decision, cost is also a significant factor.
A 5ml tube of paint is generally more economical than buying a half pan of paint. A 5ml tube can fill a half pan about two to three times, with a little left over. This means that a single 5ml tube can provide more paint than a single half pan, making it a more cost-effective option. Additionally, tubes are often cheaper because they contain more water, and the paint is less concentrated than in pans.
The cost advantage of tubes becomes even more apparent when considering larger tube sizes. For example, a 14ml tube typically costs only twice as much as a 5ml tube, offering just under a third extra paint for your money. This makes larger tubes a better value for money, and a more economical choice than buying individual pans.
For those who paint infrequently or are looking to experiment with new colours, 5ml tubes offer a cost-effective way to explore different pigments without committing to a larger tube or a full pan. This allows artists to test colours before investing in larger quantities, reducing waste and saving money.
While tubes provide better value for money, it's important to consider the potential for waste if the paint is not properly stored. Tube paints can dry out quickly if the lid is not secured properly, which can result in waste and additional costs. However, with proper care and storage, 5ml tubes can last a long time and provide a more economical option than buying half pans.
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$7.79 $10.79

5ml tubes are cheaper than full pans
When it comes to watercolour painting, there are several options to choose from, such as liquid watercolour straight from the tube, ready-made pans, or filling your own pans with tube paint. While the choice is ultimately a matter of personal preference, there are some key differences between tubes and pans that can help guide your decision.
One significant advantage of 5ml tubes over full pans is their cost-effectiveness. While a direct comparison of the paint volume may suggest that a 5ml tube should fill a full pan, in reality, the presence of water in tube paint means that the paint will shrink as it dries in the pan. As a result, you may need one and a half to two 5ml tubes to fill a full pan completely. However, even with this consideration, 5ml tubes offer a better price per ml of paint. For example, a 15ml tube typically costs twice as much as a 5ml tube, providing just under a third of extra paint for your money. Therefore, if you're looking to save costs, opting for larger tubes is the most economical choice.
Another benefit of 5ml tubes is their convenience and versatility. They are ideal for trying out new pigments without committing to a larger quantity. If you're experimenting with colours or only need a small amount for specific details, 5ml tubes are a perfect choice. This is especially true for less commonly used colours or those used for mixing, such as Phthalo and Quinacridone. Additionally, 5ml tubes are excellent for travel or outdoor painting setups, as they are compact and easy to transport.
While tube paints offer cost savings and versatility, it's important to consider the potential for wastefulness. Liquid tube paint can dry out quickly if the lid is not properly secured, resulting in a tiny 5ml tube becoming unusable. Proper care and storage are essential to prevent this issue. Additionally, it can be challenging to control the amount of paint dispensed from the tube, leading to waste. On the other hand, pan paint allows for better control as you can easily work with the desired amount, and any unused paint can simply dry again in the pan.
In conclusion, 5ml tubes offer a cost-effective and versatile option for watercolour artists. They are ideal for those who want to experiment with colours, work on small-scale projects, or require portability. However, it's crucial to manage tube paint carefully to avoid waste. Ultimately, the decision between tubes and pans depends on your personal preferences, painting style, and budget.
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Frequently asked questions
A 5ml tube can fill a full pan or two half pans. However, some sources suggest that you would need one and a half to two 5ml tubes to fill a full pan.
A full pan can hold around 4ml to 5ml of paint.
A half pan can hold around 2ml of paint.
5ml tubes are a good option if you want to try out a new colour without buying a large tube. They are also more economical than buying a half pan.









































